Pagina 280 di 1118

The prince, then, by degrees softened his voice and manner to

say, that for all faults there was a remedy, and that the remedy

for hers was clearly indicated; that she might perceive, in this

fatal accident, a warning that the world was too full of dangers

for her--

"Oh, yes!" exclaimed Gertrude, overwhelmed with shame and

remorse.

"Ah, you perceive it yourself!" resumed the prince. "Well, we

will speak no more of the past; all is forgotten. You have taken

the only honourable way that remains for you; and because you

have taken it voluntarily, it rests with me to make it turn to

your advantage, and to make the merit of the sacrifice all your

own." So saying, he rang the bell, and said to the servant who

appeared, "The princess and the prince immediately." He continued

to Gertrude, "I wish to make them the sharers of my joy; I wish

that they should begin at once to treat you as you deserve. You

have hitherto found me a severe judge; you shall now prove that I

am a loving father."