Then, what benefit is it to me that you are a prince?
I love you not that you are one, but notwithstanding it.

And if I love you in spite of all this, you must know that my affection is ever-enduring and ever-faithful--that I can never forget you, never abandon you." "And do you believe, Wilhelmine, that I could ever abandon or forsake you?
Is it not the same with me ?" She shook her head, sadly answering: "No, Frederick, it is unfortunately not the same.

You have loved me, and perhaps you love me still, but with that gentle warmth which does not hinder glowing flames to kindle near it, and with their passionate fire overpower the slight warmth." "It may be so for the moment, I grant it," the prince answered, thoughtfully; "but the quick, blazing fire soon consumes itself, leaving only a heap of ashes; then one turns to the gentle warmth with inward comfort, and rejoices in its quiet happiness." "You confess loving another ?" said Wilhelmine, sorrowfully.
"No, I do not grant that," the prince cried; "but you are a sensible, clever woman, and you know my heart is easily excited.

It is only the meteoric light of the ignis fatuus, soon extinguished.

Let it dance and flicker, but remember that the only warmth which cheers and brightens my heart is your love and friendship.