It was not easy for you to earn the reputation of the greatest beauty here.

You have also gained that of the most cruel one.

You make me feel it.

But if you wish to cast into oblivion the poisoned cup proffered just now, do me the favour to trust yourself to my guidance in the next dance." "Impossible," answered Barbara firmly.

"If I were really cruel, I would yield to your skill in tempting, and render you the base betrayer of the greatest and noblest of masters." "Does not every one who gazes at your beauty or listens to your song become such a monster, at least in thought ?" asked the baron gaily.