Only the tears rained down so silently that the Prince was not aware of them.

He had even a thought as he sat with his head averted that she might have shown a trifle more of distress, and it was almost with a reproach upon his lips that he turned to her.

Never was a man more glad that he had left a word unspoken.

This silent grief of tears cut him to the heart.
"Maria!" he cried, and moved towards her.

She made no gesture to repel him, she did not move, but she spoke in a whisper.
"His Holiness the Pope had consented to our marriage.