"I came not to disturb thy meditations," replied she, shrinking from his approaching steps. I came to crave a boon from thee."
"It is granted thee, fairest lady, even before thou dost utter it. But what is it, the most beautiful, most lovely of her beautiful, lovely sex would ask? Be it even unto the half of my kingdom—"
"It is not the half of thy kingdom, but the whole of it, together with thy kingdom's lord, that I would be freed from."
"Thou art pleased to be facetious, most charming Lady Isoleth. Pray explain thyself, that my dull understanding may comprehend thy meaning."
"Ferdinand, Prince of Bernstorf—"
"Yes—"
"Is one that I never, never can love—one that I had rather should see me in the grave ere he shall call me wife."
"Ha! well, loveliest cousin, that is plain, and easy to be understood even by the slowest comprehension. Thou hatest him, dost thou?"
"Most cordially."
"My son thanks thee, fair cousin—and I also, in his name."