Nay, I know it; I feel indeed the sweet reality that
cuddles to my side, warm, and filling me with happiness; and it is
only the excess of happiness that makes me incredulous."
"I will convince you thoroughly; and you shall doubt no more, not
even in the intoxication of happiness. Listen, then. The king, as
you know, is about to hold a great tournament and festival of the
poets, and it will take place in a few days. Now, then, at this fete
I will publicly, in the presence of the king and his court, give you
a rosette that I wear on my shoulder, and in the silver fringe of
which you will find a note from me. Will that satisfy you, my
Henry?"
"And do you still question it, my dear? Do you question it, when you
will make me proud and happy above all others of your court?"
He pressed her closely to his heart and kissed her. But suddenly she
writhed in his arms, and started up in wild alarm.
"Day is breaking, day is breaking! See there! a red streak is
spreading over the clouds. The sun is coming; day is coming, and
already begins to dawn."
He endeavored to detain her still; but she tore herself passionately
away, and again enveloped her head in her veil.
"Yes," said he, "day is breaking and it is growing light! Let me
then, for a moment at least, see your face. My soul thirsts for it
as the parched earth for the dew. Come, it is light here at the
window. Let me see your eyes."
She tore herself vehemently away.
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