"A propos, have you ever been in love, countess ?" "I?
What a question!" "Have you ?" "N--no! Let us talk of plots and war," gazing across the valley.
"No; let us talk of love.

I am in love, and one afflicted that way wishes a confidant.

I appoint you mine." "Some rosy-cheeked peasant girl ?" laughing.
"Perhaps.

Perhaps it's only a--a pantry maid," with a sly look from the corner of his eyes.

Evidently she had not heard.