"She will recover!" he said, "She is sleeping peacefully,—and all is well!" His voice rang clear and sweet, and was heard by everyone on the outskirts of the crowd. The good news ran from mouth to mouth, till all the people caught it up and responded with one brief, subdued, but hearty cheer. Then, without bidding, they began to disperse, and the King, baring his head in the presence of Cardinal Bonpre, gave up his self-imposed charge of old Sovrani, who, faint and feeble, grasped Aubrey Leigh's quickly proffered arm, and leaned heavily upon it.
"He needs care," said Humbert gently,—"The shock has moved him greatly!"
"Your Majesty is ever considerate of the sorrows of others," said the venerable Felix with emotion, "And God will bless you as He blesses all good men!"
The King bowed reverently to the benediction. Then he looked up with a slight smile.
"It is not wise of your Eminence to say so,—in Rome!" he observed,—"But I thank you, and am grateful!"
His keen eyes rested for a moment on Manuel,—and the fair aspect of the boy seemed to move him to a sense of wonder—but he did not speak. With a light salute to all present he re-entered his carriage and was driven away—and Aubrey Leigh led Prince Sovrani into his own library where, when he was seated, they all waited upon him eagerly, the fair Sylvie chafing his cold hands, and the Princesse D'Agramont practically making him drink a glass of good wine. Gradually, warmth and colour and animation came back to his pale features,—his fears were soothed,—his heart relieved, and a smile crossed his lips as he met Sylvie's earnest, anxious eyes.
"What a pretty rosebud it is!" he said softly,—"Full of sunshine—and love!"
With returning strength he gathered up the forces of his native pride and independence and rose from his chair.
"I am well—quite well again now!" he said, "Where is the boy, Manuel?"
"Gone back to Angela," replied the Cardinal, "He said he would watch her until she wakes."