"I pray you, do not speak of it—I—I——" answered Graziosa hurriedly.
Valentine lifted her brows and opened her gray eyes wide.
"Do not speak of it? Why, 'tis a deed to be proud of—even when so well rewarded, lady."
Graziosa flushed under the mock in her tone, and turned to one of her ladies.
"We will go in—alone—since the Princess will not come," she said.
"Come and walk in the garden, madama," said Valentine. "At least it seems like liberty—there will be little enough of that when you are Duchess of Milan."
Graziosa, looking at her with frightened eyes, joined her meekly, having not the spirit to refuse.
"Now, bid your ladies back a pace—at least Gian will allow us that," and Valentine motioned them away.
"What do you mean?" faltered Graziosa, with a pang of something like envy, as she noticed the grace and dignity of Valentine's bearing, and the superb carriage of her queenly head.