One day I fell the victim of a mad dream.

And to think that I almost won!" "And I ?" said Hildegarde, her hands clenched and pressed against her bosom.

"What have you done to me, who am innocent of any wrong?
What have you done to me ?" "You, my child?
I have wronged you greatest of all.

The wrong I have done to you is irreparable.

Ah, have not my arms hungered for the touch of you, my heart ached for the longing of you?
To see you day after day, always humble before you, always glad to kiss the back of your hand! Have I not lived in hell, your Highness ?" turning to the duke.
"What am I, and who am I ?" whispered Hildegarde, her heart almost ceasing to beat.
"I am your father!" simply..