A throne which is filled most ignobly at present, and
only filled at all through my birth and my family's influence. Think not I
want to plant a cheat. No! I have a right to find an heir as I will, a
splendid heir who shall redeem the land--the spirit of our two selves
given being by love, and endowed by the gods. Ah! think of it, Paul. Dream
of this joy and pride, it will help to still the unrest we are both
suffering now. It must quiet this wild, useless rage against fate. Is it
not so, my lover?"
Her voice touched his very heartstrings, but he was too deeply moved to
answer her for a moment. The renewal of this thought exalted his very
soul. All that was noble and great in his nature seemed rising up in one
glad triumph-song.
A son of his and hers to fill a throne! Ah! God, if that were so!
"I love the English," she whispered. "I have known the men of all
nations--but I love the English best. They are straight and just--the
fine ones at least. They are brave and fair--and fearless. And our baby
Paul shall be the most splendid of any. Beloved one, you must not think me
a visionary--a woman dreaming of what might never be--I see it--I know it.
This will come to pass as I say, and then we shall both find consolation
and rest."
Thus she whispered on until Paul was intoxicated with joy and glory, and
forgot time and place and danger and possible parting.
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