are beckoning to me in another country, and his Majesty may send a more
pliant regent of either sex to the provinces to continue the battle with
William of Orange, who fights with weapons which my straightforward
nature and firm sword ill understand how to meet. This sheet places the
decision before me. Real, genuine glory, the fairest of wives, and a
proud crown--or defeat and ruin."

The close of this outpouring of the young hero's heart sounded like a
manly, irrevocable resolution; but his mother laid her hand upon his arm,
and said quietly, "I will go."

A sunny glance of gratitude from her son rested upon her; she, however,
only bent her head slightly and went on as calmly as if she had found the
strength to be content, but with warm affection:

"My first sacrifice was vain. May the second not only aid you to gain
the splendour of a crown, but, above all, instil into your soul the
satisfaction with that longed-for highest happiness which your mother's
heart desires for you!"

Then Don John obeyed the mighty impulse of his soul to pour forth to his
mother the gratitude and love which her unselfish retirement wrung from
him. His arms clasped her closely and tenderly, and never had he
rewarded even his foster-mother in Villagarcia for her love and
faithfulness with a more affectionate kiss.

"My gratitude will die only with myself," he cried as he released her.
"Blessed be the day on which I found my own mother! It led you, dear
lady, not only to your John, but to his love."