I told you a gulf existed between us--you have widened it, for which I thank you! As I do not impose any of my wishes upon you, and therefore cannot request you to leave the room, you must excuse me if _I_ retire elsewhere." And she approached the entrance of her studio, which was opposite to where I stood; but the Prince reached it before her, and placed his back against it.

His face was deathly pale, and his dark eyes blazed with wrath and love intermingled.
"No, Zara!" he exclaimed in a sort of loud whisper.

"If you think to escape me so, you are in error.

I came to you reckless and resolved! You shall be mine if I die for it!" And he strove to seize her in his arms.

But she escaped him and stood at bay, her lips quivering, her bosom heaving, and her hands clenched.
"I warn you!" she exclaimed.