The prince strode forth, cautiously followed by his generals. They thus

passed noiselessly through the long corridor leading from the wing of

the palace inhabited by the prince to that occupied by the regent.

In the boudoir of the Regent Anna a somewhat singular scene was now

presented.

The tender caresses of the lovers were suddenly interrupted by Julia von

Mengden, who slipped in through the secret door in a white satin robe,

and with a myrtle crown upon her head.

"Princess Anna, it is time for you to know all!" she hurriedly said.

"Your husband is now coming here through the corridor with his generals;

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they hope to surprise you in your lover's arms, that they may have an

excuse for deposing you from the regency and substituting your husband.

Struggle against struggle! We will outwit them, and cure your husband of

his jealousy! From this hour he shall be compelled to acknowledge that

he was mistaken, and that it is for him to implore your pardon. Anna

Leopoldowna, I love no one in the world but you, and therefore I am

ready to do all that love can do for you. I will marry Count Lynar for

the purpose of preserving you from suspicion and slander. I will bear

the name of his wife, as a screen for the concealment of your loves."

Anna's eyes overflowed with tears of emotion and transport.

"Weep not, my love," whispered the count, "be strong and great in this

eventful hour! Now will you be forever mine, for this magnanimous friend

veils and protects our union."

Julia opened the door and waved her hand.

A Russian pope in sacred vestments, followed by two other servants

of the church, entered the room. With them came the most trusted

maid-servants of Julia.

Clasping the count's hand and advancing to Anna, Julia said: "Grant,

illustrious princess, that we may celebrate our solemn espousal in thy

high presence, which is the best blessing of our union!"

Anna opened wide her arms to her favorite, and, pressing her to her

bosom, whispered: "I will never forget thee, my Julia. My blessing upon

thee, my angel!"

"I will be a true sister to him," whispered Julia in return;

"always believe in me and trust me. And now, my Anna, calmness and

self-possession! I already hear your husband's approach. Be strong and

great. Let no feature of your dear face betray your inward commotion!"

And, stepping back to the count, Julia made a sign to the priest to

commence the marriage ceremony.

Hand in hand the bridal pair knelt before the priest, the servants

folded their hands in prayer, and, proudly erect, with a heavenly

transfiguration of her noble face, stood Anna Leopoldowna--the priest

commenced the ceremony.

A slight noise was heard at the closed, concealed door. The priest

calmly continued to speak, the bridal pair remained in their kneeling

position, and, calmly smiling, stood the regent by their side.




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