It is a simple story." Hildegarde did not move, nor had she moved since the revelation.
Carmichael, a secret joy in his heart, watched the girl for the slightest swaying, that inevitable prelude to fainting.

But Hildegarde was not the kind of woman who faints in the face of a catastrophe, however great it might be.

The only sign of life lay in her beautiful eyes, the gaze of which remained unswervingly fixed upon the chancellor's ashen countenance.
"Hildegarde," said the duke, "you shall become my daughter, and you shall dwell here till the end of your days.

I will try to right the wrong that has been done to you." "No, your Highness," she replied.

"There is but one place for me, and that is at my father's side." And resolutely she walked to the chancellor's left and her hand stole down and met his firmly.