Paul was young and unlearned in many things. He was completely
enthralled and under her dominion--but he was naturally no weakling of
body or mind. And this was more than he could stand.

"_You_ mustn't be teased. My God! it is you who are maddening
me!" he cried, his voice hoarse with emotion. "Do you think I am a
statue, or a table, or chair--or inanimate like that tiger there? I am
not, I tell you!" and he seized her in his arms, raining kisses upon
her which, whatever they lacked in subtlety, made up for in their
passion and strength. "Some day some man will kill you, I suppose, but
I shall be your lover--first!"

The lady gasped. She looked up at him in bewildered surprise, as a
child might do who sets a light to a whole box of matches in
play. What a naughty, naughty toy to burn so quickly for such a little
strike!

But Paul's young, strong arms held her close, she could not struggle
or move. Then she laughed a laugh of pure glad joy.

"Beautiful, savage Paul," she whispered. "Do you love me? Tell me
that?"

"Love you!" he said. "Good God! Love you! Madly, and you know it,
darling Queen."

"Then," said the lady in a voice in which all the caresses of the
world seemed melted, "then, sweet Paul, I shall teach you many things,
and among them I shall teach you how--to--LIVE."