"Are you going?" she murmured in a trembling voice.
"It is time," he answered, gently, but with an unapproachable dignity which made the words with which she would fain have entreated him to stay longer, die upon her lips.
"Your Highness win leave to morrow?"
"The countess intends to remain some time," said Ludwig, pressing his friend's arm lightly, as a warning not to wound her feeling.
"Ah," replied Freyer, thoughtfully, "then perhaps we shall meet again."
"I have not yet answered what you have said to-day; will you permit me to do so to-morrow?" asked the countess, gently; an expression of quiet suffering hovered around her lips.
"To-morrow I play the Christ again, Countess--but doubtless some opportunity will be found within the next few days."
"As you please--farewell!"
Freyer bowed respectfully, but as distantly as if he did not think it possible that the lady would offer him her hand. Ludwig, on the contrary, as if to make amends for his friend's omission, frankly extended his. She clasped it, saying in a low, hurried tone: "Stay!"
"I will merely go with Freyer to the door, and then return, if you will allow me."