“A great deal, my son.  Let me remind you of Father Silvio’s words, which you yourself reported to me.  The father had me informed that in case of the Electoral Prince’s dying without heirs, his Majesty would not recognize the claims of the other branches of the house of Brandenburg, but would consider the Electoral Mark as a vacant fief, which he might bestow elsewhere as matter of favor.  The simplest and most natural thing will be, if there is no longer any son living, to pass the right of succession to the daughter, and for the Emperor to declare the eldest daughter of the Elector George William rightful successor, and to transmit the Electoral Mark Brandenburg to herself and her husband as an act of grace.”

“Those are very great and very far-seeing plans,” murmured the young man, with downcast eyes.

“But plans which may be realized,” interposed his father hastily—­“plans which you have very maturely weighed in your prudent brain, for—­I shall answer my own question myself—­for you are on very good terms with Princess Charlotte Louise.  You have calculated very wisely and very correctly.  The Princess loves you, and may bring you an electorship as a bridal gift.”

“God forbid that I should play a criminal game with the Princess’s heart!” cried Count Adolphus, in tones louder and more energetic than he had yet employed.  “You accuse me falsely, most gracious sir.  It has never come into my mind to speculate on such a bridal gift, or to make of love a calculation.”

Count Adam gazed with an expression of painful astonishment upon the excited countenance of his son.  “Unhappy boy, you love the Princess, then?” he asked.

“Yes,” exclaimed the young man vehemently—­“yes, I love her!  I should love her were she a simple village maiden.  I should seek to win her were she of obscure and humble parentage, if she could present me with nothing but her heart, her affectionate nature, her charming self.  Learn now, father, on what terms I stand with the Princess:  I love her, love her passionately!”

“Ah, my son, how well this enthusiasm becomes you!” said his father.  “How happy the Princess would be if she could see you with those fiery glances flashing from your large bright eyes!  My son, you will surpass me, for you have one great advantage over me, you have received from Nature a glorious endowment denied to me; you have a tender heart!  You either feel glowing love or—­maybe simulate, and act it to the life!  We will not discuss this further; I only repeat it, you are destined to surpass me.  You love the Princess Charlotte Louise!  I thank you for this one confession, but add to it a second, Adolphus.  Tell me whether the Princess returns your love?”

“I have not ventured to put this question to her,” replied Count Adolphus, with downcast eyes.  “The Princess is so high above me, is so pure and virtuous, that it would be a sin to tempt her innocence and virtue by the avowal of an unsanctioned love!”