remember, you will be engaged!"

"Yes, sire."

"The day of your marriage, I will make your captain a major. You
promise to tell my brother of your engagement, and that it is in
accordance with the warmest wishes of your heart?"

"Yes, sire; and you will banish the gardener forever?"

"I will; but wait--one thing more. Where will you tell my brother of
your engagement, and before what witnesses?"

"At the place and before the witnesses your majesty may select,"
said Madame von Kleist.

The king thought a moment. "You will do it in my presence," said he;
"I will let you know the time and place through Pollnitz. We have
arranged our little affairs, madame, and we will descend to the
saloon where, I think, your epouseur is sighing for your presence."

"Let him sigh, sire! With your permission, I should like to retire."

"Go, madame, where you wish. Pollnitz will conduct you to your
carriage."

He offered her his hand, and, with a friendly bow, led her to the
door.

"Farewell, madame! I believe we part friends?"