She was not sure that the Duke's manner had changed since he had turned so strangely pale, but she fancied he spoke as if making an effort.

However, they reached the hotel at last, and separated.
"Thanks, so much," she said; "it has been such a delightful morning." "It has indeed," said he, "and--let me congratulate you once more.
Claudius is a gentleman in every way, and--I suppose he is as worthy of you as any one could be," he added quickly, in a discontented voice, and turned away, hat in hand.

She stood looking after him a moment.
"I wonder," she said to herself as she entered her room and closed the door.

"Poor man! it is not possible, though.

I must be dreaming.