are so few; the risks so enormous to others. I dare not sanction it."
"We are men; the cause is a noble one; enthusiasm has spread everywhere, and a lesser spirit has ere now led a feebler movement to success. There is not one of us, I believe, who would stand back in fear."
"There may be bloodshed," she cried.
"Much blood has already been shed in the cause of oppression. We must think of the ends, not the means. A bold stroke here will bring the army in the south to your standard—and that may do everything."
"It is a momentous decision to have to make. I cannot make it. I must have time to think."
"Every hour that delays the decision may turn the balance between success and failure."
"If I thought we could triumph!" she cried, her eyes flashing and her cheeks glowing for a moment. But she paused, the light died out as quickly as it had come, and she shook her head mournfully. "I must have time."
"Let me send for Captain Zoiloff. Hear him."
"Do you think he can persuade me where you fail, Count?" she asked, her eyes burning again, but with a different emotion.
"At least I would have you hear him, Princess," I said, dropping my eyes and speaking as evenly as I could command my voice.
While he was sent for I stood in silence, and when he came I told him briefly what had passed. He spoke strongly and bluntly like the sturdy fellow he was; but he could not prevail any more than I, and he left the room rather abruptly.
The Princess looked after him with an expression of the deepest pain, and when she turned again to me I
