Denzil, in this headstrong passion of yours,--for it is a
headstrong passion, just as mine is,--do you actually intend to
make the Ziska your wife if she will have you?"

"Of course," replied Murray, with some haughtiness.

A fleeting expression of amusement flitted over Gervase's
features.

"It is very honorable of you," he said, "very! My dear boy, you
shall have your full chance. Because I--I would not make the
Princess Madame Gervase for all the world! She is not formed for a
life of domesticity--and pardon me--I cannot picture her as the
contented chatelaine of your grand old Scotch castle in Ross-
shire."

"Why not?"

"From an artistic point of view the idea is incongruous," said
Gervase lazily. "Nevertheless, I will not interfere with your
wooing."

Denzil's face brightened.

"You will not?"

"I will not--I promise! But"--and here Gervase paused, looking his
young friend full in the eyes, "remember, if your chance falls to
the ground--if Madame gives you your conge--if she does not
consent to be a Scottish chatelaine and listen every day to the