He did not hear a light tap upon the door, he did not
see it open, and his most intimate and dearest friend, Count
Kalkreuth enter, dressed in the full costume of a shepherd.
Count Kalkreuth stood still, and did nothing to call the attention
of the prince to his presence. He remained at the door; his face was
also dark and troubled, and the glance which he fixed upon Prince
Henry was almost one of hatred.
The prince turned, and the count's expression changed instantly; he
stepped gayly forward and said:
"Your royal highness sees my astonishment at finding you lost in
such deep thought, and your toilet not even commenced. I stand like
Lot's blessed wife, turned to stone upon your threshold! Have you
forgotten, my prince, that you commanded us all to be ready
punctually at four o'clock? The castle clock is at this moment
striking four. The ladies and gentlemen will now assemble in the
music-saloon, as you directed, and you, prince, are not yet in
costume."
"It is true," said Prince Henry, somewhat embarrassed, "I had
forgotten; but I will hasten to make good my fault."
He stepped slowly, and with head bowed down, toward his dressing-
room; at the door, he stood and looked back at the count.
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