However, since our
regimental surgeon pronounces me fit to go home, I have no choice
but to obey orders. Believe me, Madame, I am deeply grateful to
yourself as well as to the Principe Montevarchi for your manifold
kindnesses, and shall cherish a remembrance of your goodness so
long as I live."
With these words Gouache bowed as though he would be gone and
stood waiting for the princess's last word. But before her mother
could speak, Faustina's voice was heard.
"I cannot tell you how dreadfully we feel--papa and I--at having
been the cause of such a horrible accident! Is there nothing we
can do to make you forget it?"
The princess stared at her daughter in the utmost astonishment at
her forwardness. She would not have been surprised if Flavia had
been guilty of such imprudence, but that Faustina should thus
boldly address a young man who had not spoken to her, was such a
shock to her belief in the girl's manners that she did not recover
for several seconds. Anastase appreciated the situation, for as he
answered, he looked steadily at the mother, although his words
were plainly addressed to the brown-eyed beauty.
"Mademoiselle is too kind. She exaggerates. And yet, since she has
put the question, I will say that I should forget my broken bones
very soon if I might be permitted to paint Mademoiselle's
portrait.
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