As to the prince, good and generous
though he was, still he might not be able to bring himself to look with
favour upon the man who had almost deprived him of his son. Then, too,
he might desire some other alliance for his new-found daughter--it
was not impossible--but in her inmost heart she promised herself to be
faithful to her first and only love; to take refuge in a convent rather
than accept the hand of any other; even though that other were as
handsome as Apollo, and gifted as the prince of a fairy tale. Comforted
by this secret vow, by which she dedicated her life and love to de
Sigognac, whether their destiny should give them to each other or keep
them asunder, Isabelle was just falling into a sweet sleep when a slight
sound made her open her eyes, and they fell upon Chiquita, standing at
the foot of the bed and gazing at her with a thoughtful, melancholy air.
"What is it, my dear child?" said Isabelle, in her sweetest tones. "You
did not go away with the others, then? I am glad; and if you would
like to stay here with me, Chiquita, I will keep you and care for you
tenderly; as is justly due to you, my dear, for you have done a great
deal for me."
"I love you dearly," answered Chiquita, "but I cannot stay with you
while Agostino lives; he is my master, I must follow him.
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