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That occasion came. Some slight disappointment brought on one of
the old paroxysms of rage, and the ox-like bellow of Prince Alexis
rang through the castle. Boris was absent, but Helena delayed not
a moment to venture into his father's presence. She found him in
a hall over-looking the court-yard, with his terrible whip in
his hand, giving orders for the brutal punishment of some scores of
serfs. The sight of her, coming thus unexpectedly upon him, did
not seem to produce the least effect.
"Father!" she cried, in an earnest, piteous tone, "what is it you
do?"
"Away, witch!" he yelled. "I am the master in Kinesma, not thou!
Away, or--"
The fierceness with which he swung and cracked the whip was more
threatening than any words. Perhaps she grew a shade paler,
perhaps her hands were tightly clasped in order that they might not
tremble; but she did not flinch from the encounter. She moved a
step nearer, fixed her gaze upon his flashing eyes, and said, in a
low, firm voice--
"It is true, father, you are master here.


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