"Yes, of course. How stupid I am!" I murmured.
All along, then, Godensky had meant to get my promise and deceive me,
for I had not even sent my note of defiance when this trick was played.
Had the treaty been missing, and Raoul disgraced, Godensky would no
doubt have vowed to me--if I'd lived to hear his vows--that he had had
no hand in the discovery. Fear of the terrible man who had so nearly
beaten me in the game made me quiver even now. "You see," I went on, "I
can think of nothing but you, and my love for you. You'll never be
jealous and make me miserable again, will you, no matter what Count
Godensky or any other wretched creature may say of me to you?"
"I've listened to Godensky for the last time," said Raoul. "The dog! He
shall never come near me again."
"I hardly think he will try," I said. "I'm glad we're going to be
married soon. Do you know, I'm half inclined to do as you've asked me
sometimes, and promised you wouldn't ask again--leave the stage. I want
to rest, and just be happy, like other women. I want love--and
peace--and you."
"You shall have all, and for always," answered Raoul. "If only I
deserved you!"
"If only I deserved you!" I echoed.
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