"Yes, I will remember. But, the young American doctor who struck--and
then killed a captain. Where is he?"
"In his own country."
"In America?"
"Even so."
"Shameful! Shameful!"
"Why shameful, Countess?"
"Because I hoped they were together--as they should be. It's too
delicious a romance for the lovers to spoil by parting."
"Lovers! She hardly knew him. If a favorite prima donna were to adopt
every man who fell in love with her she would have no time for music.
Heavens! What a regiment of followers!"
"Nevertheless," said the lady, in a more serious manner, "I blush for
the Diva."
"Why blush?"
"I always blush for virtue."
* * * * *
As the carriage, with the Countess, escorted by the Breath of Scandal,
disappeared around a curve in the road, Dr. Cervini removed his hat,
looked heavenward and murmured:
"Angels of mercy, forgive a liar."
But the lie did well. Never again came the Breath of Scandal so near
the Diva. The lovers' secret remained a secret. Even her father, the
famous scientist with the drowsy eyes, died twenty years later not
knowing that he had a grandchild.
[Illustration]