It was he who, in a way, had cast her off.

In effect he had issued the challenge: "I am a child of the gutter, an adventurer masquerading under an historical name, and you are a royal princess.

Will you marry me now ?" She had given her answer, by walking out of the room, her proud head in the air.

It was final, as far as he was concerned.

He could do nothing--not even beg his dearest lady to plead for him.