At the door of the second
saloon she remained standing, and awaited the further commands of
the queen. As Sophia did not speak, Laura raised her eyes and looked
timidly at the two queens, who were seated on a sofa opposite the
door; they were both gazing at her, the queen-mother severely, with
a proud and derisive smile, but Queen Elizabeth regarded with
unutterable pity this poor girl, who reminded her of a broken lily.
"Mademoiselle von Pannewitz," said Sophia, after a long silence, "I
have a matter of great importance to communicate to you, and as it
admits of no delay, her majesty has allowed me to speak to you in
her presence. Listen attentively, and weigh well my words. I have
treated you with affectionate kindness; you have always found in me
a friend and mother. I therefore require of you unconditional and
silent obedience--an obedience that as your queen and mistress I
have a right to demand. You are of a noble but poor family, and your
parents cannot support you in the style suitable to your birth. I
have adopted you, and will now establish for you a future which will
be both splendid and happy. A rich and gallant cavalier has proposed
for your hand, and as it is a most fitting and advantageous offer, I
have accepted it for you, and promised your consent.
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