"Perhaps. Who can tell what a woman may do? It is my earnest hope that she prove not unwilling."
"Is she beautiful?"
"The divinest—yes, she is accounted so."
In spite of Tekla's enthusiasm for the welfare of her Emperor, the ardour with which the young man began his eulogy regarding the unknown lady in question, and the quick suppression of the same, did not escape her notice, nor did it bring that satisfaction which a moment before Tekla had anticipated. She turned her eyes from him and allowed them to wander over the wide and peaceful landscape, whose beauty was so much enhanced by the winding, placid river.
Then she said suddenly, obviously apropos of the labouring peasants:
"We shall be in little danger of starvation in Thuron, unless the siege be long."
"I am not so sure of that," replied Rodolph. "I had no supper last night, and this morning none has said to me 'This is the way to the dining hall.'"
"Do you mean that you have not yet breakfasted?" cried Tekla, turning to him with quick surprised interest. "And I have been standing here censuring a hungry man. You must think our race a most ungrateful one."
"I had no such thought. But your mention of starvation reminded me that I am rather in the condition of a famishing garrison myself."
"Then come with me at once. I will be your hostess, and will endeavour to recompense you for the inhospitality of the castle. There is a delightful balcony overlooking the quiet inner courtyard, and there we shall spread your repast. Come."