Her great, black eyes were turned to her mother with an expression of painful terror, and she searched with a deathly anxiety for a trace of sympathy and mercy upon her cold, immovable face.
Her mother slowly folded the letter, and laid it upon the table.

"You know all now, Marie--that, as it becomes parents, we have disposed of your future and your hand.

You will submit to their wishes without murmuring or opposition, as it becomes an obedient, well-brought-up daughter, and receive the husband we have chosen for you.

He will come today to hear your consent, and you from this day forth are the betrothed of the future Herr von Werrig.

Of course from this very hour you will cease the highly improper and ungenteel business which you have pursued.