You are not tied to me any longer,--unless you wish it." As she spoke these words Nino turned white, for under the heavy curtain, lifted to admit her, stood Hedwig von Lira, like a statue, transfixed and immovable from what she had heard.

The baroness noticed Nino's look, and springing back to her height from the chair on which she had been leaning, faced the door.
"My dearest Hedwig!" she cried, with a magnificent readiness.

"I am so very glad you have come.

I did not expect you in the least.

Do take off your hat, and stay to breakfast.