Hitherto, Robert had not
wished to avail himself of his advantage. He had been content with the
pleasantly piquant consciousness that his presence made her heart throb
faster, and did not pursue the dawning romance farther, for Fraeulein von
Markwald belonged to one of the best families in the country, and he now
thought of the respect due to the unsullied reputation of a young
girl--he was somewhat less reckless than ten years ago. But now there
should be a change. Since he had serious intentions he need not shrink
from using all means to complete the conquest of this fortress, which,
moreover, was already on the point of raising the white flag.
He did not lose a moment. All the evening he was seen in the little
court box, devoting himself most assiduously to Fraeulein von Markwald,
and this was afterward repeated at every performance. Whenever the
princess gave an evening reception, he seemed to care only for the
beautiful girl, and was always behind or beside her, serving her, talking
with her, offering her his arm, tenderly solicitous about her on her
arrival and departure.
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