"So, that is better, darling," said Olvir, as the violet eyes, beaming with love and happiness, were raised to his own. "Now you gaze up bravely, like a true king's daughter."
"Dear hero! Surely I should be a little brave, when you have had to undergo such fearful dangers--that terrible battle! I shall live in constant dread lest next time--"
"Foolish maiden! Fear slays far greater numbers than the sword. Where is your faith in the White Christ? See now; He has given us this great happiness."
"It is hard to be always trusting, Olvir. But you renew my faith. Here is joy to repay me for my dread."
"Sweet joy, sweetheart! I had given over all thought of seeing you until the host returned Rhineward."
"If only it had been a happier cause that brought me! Dame Bertrada, my father's mother, was stricken down with a sickness which none of the leeches could ease, and when Abbot Fulrad, compelled by matters of state, decided that he must come north, under guard of the Burgundian levy, the queen-mother gave command that I should go with him, to bear her message to my father. The good abbot has lost none of his liking for you, dear hero. He was only too well pleased to bring me in his following."
"He has brought me joy!--But the queen-mother? God grant that the old dame may yet find health!"
"Kosru the leech will return to Mayence with Abbot Fulrad. His magic drugs heal where others fail. Of all whom he has attended, only Hildegarde, my beloved mother--"
A sob choked Rothada's utterance, and tears sprang into her eyes.
Olvir caught her face between his hands, and, stooping quickly, kissed away the tears.