He held out his arms to her, but she only gave him her hand.
"Nothing more at such a moment?" he said.
"It is a moment that there can be nothing more," she answered. "Remember, I do not urge your marriage with Christine now."
"It is necessary; believe me, I would not marry her if I could help it."
"So we come to the parting ways."
"But you have always known that such a marriage was inevitable if I would possess the throne in peace."
"Circumstances are changed, Felix; I do not know it now. My Lord Duke has chosen his Duchess. He may come to me for advice if he will; he must go to her for love."
"It is sacrifice. My love is here with you."
"Think so if it helps you, but it is my hand only, Felix."
"And for the first time in my life I find it hard and cruel," he answered, raising it to his lips.