The thunder of great masses of snow, loosened by the thaw and gathering weight as they rolled down the mountain side, came to their ears.

The sky was a brilliant blue, pouring down continuous warm beams, and it was obvious that it would not be long before the automobile road was clear.

Then the blue eyes turned a questioning gaze upon the gray.
"Yes, I'm preparing for us to go soon," said John.
"Which way ?" asked Julie.
"Toward Italy, I think." "Is it possible for us to get through ?" "I don't know.

The hardships and the dangers undoubtedly will be great." "But one can endure them." "You have little to fear.

Prince Karl of Auersperg offers you morganatic marriage, and he thinks that he is honoring you." "But do you, John, think that he is honoring me ?" "Although you would probably be a mere countess and not a princess, your position nevertheless would be great in most continental eyes, far grander than if you were to marry some obscure republican." "You haven't answered me.