His passionate delight in her seemed as if it could not find enough expression, as he grew to know the cultivation of her mind and the pure thoughts of her soul.—­And her tenderness to him was all the sweeter in its exquisite submission, because her general mien was so proud.

They realized they had found the greatest happiness in this world, and with the knowledge that they had achieved their desires, after anguish and pain, they held it next their hearts as heaven’s gift.

And when they went to Montfitchet again, to spend that Christmas, the old Duke was satisfied!

* * * * *

Now, all this happened two years ago.  And on the second anniversary of the Tancred wedding Mr. Francis and Lady Ethelrida Markrute dined with their nephew and niece.

And when they came to drinking healths, bowing to Zara her uncle raised his glass and said,

“I propose a toast, that I prophesied I would, to you, my very dear niece—­the toast of four supremely happy people!”

And as they drank, the four joined hands.

THE END