But she would not give way to this pity; would not betray a
weakness, of which she was ashamed. Taking the hand of the young
queen and casting a look of disdain at Laura, she said, "Come, my
daughter, we will no longer bear the presence of this person, whose
tears, I hope, spring from repentance and acknowledgment of her
offence; may she obtain our pardon by resolving to-day, of her own
free will, and without forcing us to harsher measures, to accept the
hand of Count Voss; come, my daughter."
The two queens stepped to the door. Sophia threw it open violently,
and passed immediately into the boudoir, but Elizabeth did not
follow her. She looked back at the poor sobbing girl lying upon the
floor. The pale and noble face touched her womanly heart.
"Pardon, your majesty, if I do not follow immediately; I should like
to say a few words to Mademoiselle von Pannewitz; I think I have a
right to do so."
The queen-mother experienced a cruel pleasure at these words.
"Oh, my daughter, even your forbearance is exhausted, and you feel
that forgiveness is impossible; yes, speak to her, and let her feel
the whole weight of your righteous indignation. Words of reproach
and accusation from your gentle lips will have a crushing power. But
no delay--you know the king will soon be here.
Pages:
304
305
306
307
308
309
310
311
312
313
314
315
316
317
318
319
320
321
322
323
324
325
326
327
328