He was dressed in his blue and scarlet uniform, and was groomed with
even extra care, she noticed, as he advanced with none of his habitual
easy familiarity to greet her.
"I come to ask your consent to my marriage with your goddaughter,
Tantine," he said, with grave courtesy, as he kissed her hand. "She has
graciously promised to become my wife, and I have only to secure your
consent to complete my felicity."
"Gritzko! my dear boy!" was all the Princess could murmur. "If--if--you
are sure it is for the happiness of you both nothing of course could
give me greater joy; but--"
"It will be for our happiness," he answered, letting the hinted doubt
pass.
Then his ceremonious manner melted a little, and he again kissed his
old friend's hand. "Dear Tantine, have no fears. I promise you it shall
be for our happiness."
The Princess was deeply moved. She knew there must be something
underneath all this, but she was accustomed to believe Gritzko blindly,
and she felt that if he gave his word, things must be right. She would
ask no questions.
"Will you go and fetch my fianc?e like the darling you are," he said
presently, "I want you to give her to me."
And the Princess, quite overcome with emotion, left the room.
It was not like a triumphant prospective Princess and bride that Tamara
followed her godmother, when they returned together.
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