Before the Altar

Half an hour later, already watching the sky lose its deep hue as they rode, the couple, along with Iacintho and Dubois, saw the city of Alençon, and the tower of their church standing out on the horizon.

Alexa could hardly believe what was happening! Was she really going to marry Klaus? She was not sure about the validity of this marriage, nor did she understand why he was doing this. However, she didn't even feel in a position to think clearly.

The horses stopped in front of the Church, and Klaus, helping her down, asked,

"Do you feel better?"

What could she say? What riding had calmed her down? Of course it didn't! But she tried to maintain some composure, and the princess smiled as serenely as she could.

"Stay here for a moment, Captain Dubois and I are going to the rectory," said the Prince.

For the first time, Alexa realized that he was more flushed than normal, and quite agitated. Dubois, however, took off his hat and said,