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was: 'My true and dear Lord! I have no will in this matter—order according to your own will and pleasure.'—'Then,' said the Marquis in a low and mild voice, 'I wish to have a conference with you both within doors; for I would know from her own mouth, and before you, her father, whether it be her free will to become my wife, and subject to my dominion. All this shall be done in your presence; and no word will I say to her out of your hearing.' While the three were arranging the conditions within, the neighbours flocked about the house, talking together of the dutiful and loving behaviour of Grilselda towards her father, and of her honest and simple bearing to all, while she, unaccustomed to the presence of such a guest, and in such a place, stood pale and wondering at the event. To end the affair, however, as shortly as possible, the Marquis turned to this gentle and very faithful creature, and said: 'Griselda, it pleases your father and myself that I should take you to be my wife; and I think you will not reject our wishes. Yet, since our union must be concluded hastily, bethink yourself whether you