He knew now the true, lofty beauty of her soul, that it was akin
to the angels, and but for the keen, ever-increasing grief he suffered
because of her firm refusal to give herself wholly to him, his
happiness, in possessing her faithful, devoted love, would have been too
perfect for this life of trials and sorrow.
When supper was over, de Sigognac accompanied Isabelle to the threshhold
of her own room, and said ere he left her, "Be sure to fasten your door
securely, my sweet Isabelle, for there are so many people about in a
great hotel like this that one cannot be too careful."
"You need have no fears for me here, my dear baron," she replied; "only
look at this lock, and you will be convinced of that. Why it is strong
enough for a prison door, and the key turns thrice in it. And here is
a great thick bolt besides--actually as long as my arm. The window is
securely barred, and there is no dreadful bull's eye, or opening of any
kind in the wall, to make me afraid. Travellers so often have articles
of value with them that I suppose it is necessary for them to have such
protections against thieves. Make yourself easy about me, de Sigognac!
never was the enchanted princess of a fairy tale, shut up in her strong
tower guarded by dragons, in greater security than am I in this fortress
of mine.
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