And I was well inspired; in my heart, I think that I was well inspired; that any man, within the reach of argument, had been convinced! But it was not to be; nor, madam, do I regret the failure.

Let us be open; let me disclose my heart.

I have loved two things, not unworthily: Grunewald and my sovereign!' Here he kissed her hand.

'Either I must resign my ministry, leave the land of my adoption and the queen whom I had chosen to obey--or--' He paused again.
'Alas, Herr von Gondremark, there is no "or,"' said Seraphina.
'Nay, madam, give me time,' he replied.

'When first I saw you, you were still young; not every man would have remarked your powers; but I had not been twice honoured by your conversation ere I had found my mistress.