"Moreover," said the King, "she desires you to remain the sovereign
Princess of Hohenphalia."
"Nay, Your Majesty," said Gretchen, "it is I who will relinquish my
claims. Your Majesty is aware that I have many caprices."
"Indeed, yes," said the King. "And I can assure you that they have
caused me no small anxiety. But let us come to an understanding, once
and for all. Do you wish to abdicate in favor of your sister?"
Gretchen gave me the briefest notice.
"Yes, Your Majesty."
Phyllis was regarding me steadfastly.
"This is final?" said the King.
"It is."
"And what is your will?" to Phyllis. "Yes, the likeness is truly
remarkable," communing aloud to his thought.
I could not suppress the appeal in my eyes.
"Your Majesty," said Phyllis, "if my sister will teach me how to become
a Princess, I promise to accept the responsibility."
"You will not need much teaching," replied the King, admiringly.
"You will do this?--you, my sister?" asked Gretchen eagerly.
"Yes." There was no color now in Phyllis's cheeks; they were as white
as the marble faun on the mantel.
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