"You say that I am sad at times. I had thought your brilliant
conversation and gentleness of character had so far made me forget
that I no longer looked sad. But it is not so. You, so rich in
wealth and position, have never known a want, have never received a
slight, have never been insulted at heart for pride's sake. Lady, I
have loved a being, so much like yourself, that I have often dreamed
of you together. A being all pure and beautiful, with but one sad
alley in her sweet character-pride. I saw her while yet most humble
in rank. I served herself and father and brother, even to saving
their lives; I was promoted, and held high honor with my command;
but she was rich, and her father high in lordly honors and
associations. I was but a poor soldier; what else might I expect but
scorn if I dared to love her? But, countess, you are ill," said the
soldier, observing her pallid features and quick coming and going
breath.
"Only a temporary illness; it is already gone," she said. "Pray go
on."
"And yet I believe she loved me also though the pride of her heart
choked the growth of the tendrils of affection. Maddened by the
insults of a rival, who was far above me in rank, I challenged him,
and for this was banished from the island where she lives.
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