"No, no!" said I, "You are mistaken, dear Count; I am that person." I directed a scrutinizing look at her while I uttered these words; but she still continued to be taciturn.
"You probably think so," the Count resumed, "because she is so serious ever since an unfortunate accident has made me interrupt your conversation?"
"I don't like to enter into a contest with you; but let us make an experiment. That proud goddess may decide herself. Kneel down, and take this myrtle sprig." He kneeled, laughing, down, and took the myrtle in his hand.
"Now, fair Caroline," I began in a solemn accent, turning to her, "it is your turn to choose. Here you see two lovers kneeling before you, who adore you with equal tenderness, who would sacrifice their life with pleasure to save yours, but rather will devote it to your happiness. Either offers you a myrtle sprig, accept that of him whom you prefer to the other."
I could
