I will marry Monsieur Gouache or I will marry no
one."
Montevarchi really believed that his daughter's mind was deranged.
His interview with Gouache had convinced him that Faustina meant
what she said, though he affected to laugh at it, but he was
wholly unable to account for her conduct on any theory but that of
insanity. Being at his wits' end he had sent for his wife, and
while waiting for her he did not quite know what to do.
"My dear child, what is Monsieur Gouache? A very estimable young
man, without doubt, but not such a one as we could choose for your
husband."
"I have chosen him," answered Faustina. "That is enough."
"How you talk, my dear! How rashly you talk! As though choosing a
husband were like buying a new hat! And you, too, whom I always
believed to be the most dutiful, the most obedient of my children!
But your mother and I will reason with you, we will endeavour to
put better thoughts into your heart."
Faustina glanced scornfully at her father and turned away, walking
slowly in the direction of the window.
"It is of no use to waste your breath on me," she said presently.
"I will marry Gouache or nobody."
"You--marry Gouache?" cried the princess, who entered at that
moment, and heard the last words.
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