Trembling with proud ecstasy, she was compelled to lean upon
Orloff's arm to preserve herself from falling.
"No weakness now!" said he, and for the first time his voice sounded
harsh and rough. Surprised, she glanced at him--there was something
in his face that she did not understand; there was something wild and
disagreeable in the expression of his features, and he avoided meeting
her glance.
He looked over to the ships. "See," said he, "they are letting down the
great boat; Admiral Gluck himself is coming for you. And see that host
of gondolas, that follow the admiral's boat! All his officers are coming
to do homage to you, and when you, in their company, reach the admiral's
ship, they will let down the golden arm-chair to take you on board. That
is an honor they pay only to persons of imperial rank!"
Her glance passed by all these unimportant things; she saw only his
face; she thoughtfully and sadly asked herself what change had come over
Alexis, and what was the meaning of his half-sly, half-angry appearance.
The boats came to the shore, and now came the admiral with his officers;
prostrating themselves before her, they paid homage to this beautiful
princess, whom they hailed as their mistress.
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