“You put that word then.  In honor I dared not answer.  You were a princess!  I was only a soldier of fortune.  But now that you are in trouble, now that you have need of me, I may answer.  I may tell you now why, why I have thrown ambition and future to the winds, why I am here at your side to-night.  Need I tell you?  Do you not know, and have you not known?  Am I cruel to speak of love in the moment of your great affliction?  Well, I must be cruel.  I love you!  Faithfully and loyally, now and hereafter, through this sad day into happier ones.  I ask nothing for this love I offer; I ask only that I may use it in your service, in good times or bad.”

“Ask what you will,” she whispered.  “I am happy now!”