Dreams of kaleidoscopic variety flew through her head.
Little there was, however, of jewels and gowns.

This vast sum would be the buffer between her and hunger while she pursued the one great ambition of her life--music.

She tried to speak, to thank them, but her voice was gone.

Tears sprang into her eyes.

She had the power to do no more than weep.
The duke was the first to relieve the awkwardness of the moment.
"Count, has it not occurred to you that we stand in the presence of two very beautiful young women ?" Herbeck scrutinized Gretchen with care; then he compared her with the princess.