Then he extended his hand; and Billevich, in whose soul the first outburst had passed, did not dare to refuse his own, though he gave it with hesitation.
“Your highness, return to us our freedom; that will be the best satisfaction.”
“You are free, and may go, even to-day.”
“I thank your highness,” said the astonished Billevich.
“I interpose only one condition, which you, God grant, will not reject.”
“What is that?” asked Billevich, with fear.
“That you listen patiently to what I am going to say.”
“If that is all, I will listen even till evening.”
“Do not give me your answer at once, but think an hour or two.”
“God sees that if I receive my freedom I wish peace.”
“You will receive your freedom; but I do not know whether you will use it, or whether you will be urgent to leave my th
