I desire, I require, that this
conversation shall cease; shall never, never be renewed."
"And I tell thee, haughty woman," said the Prince of Athens, grinding
his teeth, and speaking with violent action, "that I will no longer be
despised with impunity. Iduna is mine, or is no one else's."
"Is it possible?" exclaimed the daughter of Hunniades. "Is it, indeed,
come to this? But why am I surprised! I have long known Nicaeus. I
quit this castle instantly."
"You are a prisoner," replied the prince very calmly, and leaning with
folded arms against the wall.
"A prisoner!" exclaimed Iduna, a little alarmed. "A prisoner! I defy
you, sir. You are only a guest like myself. I will appeal to the
Seneschal in the absence of his lord. He will never permit the honour
of his master's flag to be violated by the irrational caprice of a
passionate boy."
"What lord?" inquired Nicaeus.
"Your friend, the Lord Justinian," answered Iduna. "He could little
anticipate such an abuse of his hospitality."
"My friend, the Lord Justinian!" replied Nicaeus, with a malignant
smile.
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